Olney Legion Seeks Students for Boys State

Olney High School juniors and seniors— are you ready to spend a week this summer gaining leadership experience, learning how government really works, and meeting some of the most motivated students in Texas? If so, the Olney American Legion Post 414 has an opportunity for you.

The Texas Boys State program, held June 8–13 in Austin, is now accepting applications—and Post Commander Chris Garcia wants to send at least one local student to this prestigious leadership event.

“Even if we only get one student this year, I’ll be thrilled,” Commander Garcia said. “This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.”

The cost to attend is $400, but the local Legion has scholarships available to cover the cost for up to three or four students—as long as they meet the requirements and are approved by the school and the Legion post.

So, what exactly is Boys State? Think of it as a crash course in real-life government. Founded in 1935, Boys State puts students in charge of a fictional 51st state where they build a government from the ground up—electing officials, writing laws, running courtrooms, and learning firsthand how democracy functions.

But it is also a leadership boot camp, a college application booster, and a networking opportunity, Commander Garcia said.

Participants walk away with connections that can open doors to universities, military academies like West Point, and careers in public service. In fact, many college admissions officers consider Boys State a major plus on a student’s resume, he said.

The program has a legacy of producing leaders. Past Boys State participants include former President Bill Clinton, astronaut Neil Armstrong, NFL legend Dan Marino, rock star Jon Bon Jovi, and Supreme Court Justice Samuel Alito.

If you’re in 11th or 12th grade, curious about leadership, politics, or just want to try something totally different, this program is for you. No student from Olney has attended in over 20 years—and Commander Garcia says it’s time to change that.

“Honestly, I’m jealous I never got to go,” he said, urging anyone interested to watch a documentary about the program – Boys State on Apple TV.

Anyone interested should contact Olney High School counselor Courtney Wells or reach out to any member of the American Legion Post 414. Commander Garcia also encourages students to check out www.texasboysstate.com and the documentary if they’re on the fence.